Designing Dreams: A Child’s Room Reimagined

When I design a children’s bedroom, I think of it as more than just a place to sleep—it’s a space where imagination, rest, and emotional development intersect. Something you may not know about me is that I wrote my college thesis on Freud’s Interpretation of Dreams, and that early passion for psychology continues to inform how I approach interior design today. Freud believed dreams are windows into the unconscious—symbolic, emotional, and often deeply meaningful. I apply that same perspective to children’s spaces, creating rooms that reflect their unique inner worlds and support their emotional well-being at every stage of development.

A carefully considered color scheme sets the emotional tone for each zone of the room. In the sleep area, I use soft blues, warm neutrals, and muted greens to evoke a sense of calm and safety. These hues promote rest and help ease the transition into sleep—supporting the subconscious mind in the very way Freud described. Textures are equally important here—natural linens, soft knits, and plush rugs offer tactile comfort that gently signals the body and mind to unwind. Low lighting and serene wall art reinforce this peaceful, dream-friendly atmosphere.

In contrast, the play zone is full of life. Bright colors like coral, sunflower yellow, and turquoise energize the space and spark creativity. This area encourages storytelling, movement, and exploration—key outlets for children to process feelings and express themselves freely. Here, I often include interactive features such as chalkboard walls, whimsical artwork, and low shelving that empowers kids to engage with their surroundings independently. According to Freud, play is an important method through which children begin to work out their internal experiences—making this space not only fun, but psychologically enriching.

Then there’s the learning nook, often set apart by natural textures, clean lines, and soothing tones like soft taupe and light wood. This space supports concentration and quiet creativity, reinforcing healthy routines and mental clarity. Thoughtful details like adjustable lighting, ergonomic seating, and personalized storage ensure that the space functions well as children grow. A child’s ability to focus and reflect improves in an environment where visual distractions are minimized and comfort is maximized—two principles I build into every custom learning zone.

As a Los Angeles Interior Designer, I create interiors that balance beauty with emotional depth. In children’s bedroom design, each color, material, and layout choice has a function—just as every dream holds meaning. Through design, we can give children spaces that not only support their daily needs but also their inner lives, dreams, and developmental growth. The rooms we create today become the emotional foundation for how a child experiences rest, play, and learning in the future.

At Donna Livingston Interior Design, we specialize in luxury children’s interiors that are not only visually stunning but also thoughtfully designed to support a child’s psychological and developmental needs. Whether in Los Angeles or beyond, our custom interiors reflect the belief that every detail should have purpose, and every room should tell a story—just like a dream.

Warmly,

Donna Livingston